From ‘Waka Waka’ to ‘Dai Dai’: Shakira, J Balvin, Wyclef Jean, and Nora Fatehi Reveal the Secrets Behind Unforgettable World Cup Anthems
NEW YORK: The quest for the perfect World Cup anthem is a complex endeavor that intertwines cultural representation, musical diversity, and the ability to evoke collective emotions. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, artists who have previously contributed to these iconic songs share their insights on what makes a World Cup anthem truly memorable.
Shakira, who has been a prominent figure in World Cup music, is set to collaborate with Afrobeats star Burna Boy for the official anthem titled “Dai Dai.” This follows her success with “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” the anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. Shakira emphasizes that a World Cup song must resonate on a global scale, capturing the feelings and passions of diverse audiences. She articulates that the song should reflect a multitude of cultures, making it a unifying force.
Shakira notes the essential elements of a successful anthem: rhythm, energy, and the ability to inspire sing-alongs. She states, “A good World Cup song needs to definitely have rhythm. It has to make people want to dance and sing out loud at the top of their lungs.” This infectious energy is crucial for creating a memorable experience in stadiums around the world.
Colombian artist J Balvin, who is part of Coca-Cola’s official song for the 2026 World Cup—a reimagining of Van Halen’s “Jump”—highlights the importance of capturing listeners’ attention immediately. He remarks that in today’s fast-paced music landscape, songs must engage audiences within seconds. Balvin believes that a World Cup anthem should reflect the emotional highs and lows of a soccer match, stating, “Fútbol brings us together, with all different highs and lows. All these different emotions happen in one game.”
Nora Fatehi, a Canadian-Moroccan singer-songwriter, contributes to the official 2026 World Cup album with her track “Siir, Siir,” a collaboration with French artist Vegedream and Bangladeshi American DJ Sanjoy. Fatehi emphasizes the need for a strong beat that encourages celebration and dance. She expresses that the anthem should evoke feelings of victory and aspiration, saying, “When you hear it, you feel like you’re winning, or you’re gonna win, or you won.”
Wyclef Jean, known for his work with the Fugees, co-wrote and performed “Dar um Jeito (We Will Find a Way)” for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. He stresses that an anthem must electrify the stadium, asserting, “You literally have to feel the entire stadium shaking.” Jean believes that a successful World Cup song transcends language, focusing instead on energy and cultural resonance. He states, “What I love best about World Cup is that before it has a language, it has an energy and a vibe.”
Jean also highlights the importance of a strong melody and a good hook, which are essential for creating an anthem that people can easily sing along to. He reflects on the message of unity in “Dar um Jeito,” noting that it was crafted to inspire resilience among youth worldwide, particularly those in rural areas.
The insights from these artists reveal that the creation of a World Cup anthem is not merely about musical composition; it is a multifaceted process that involves understanding cultural dynamics, emotional resonance, and the collective spirit of fans around the globe. As the world prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the anticipation for another unforgettable anthem continues to grow.
Source: www.emirates247.com
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Published on 2026-06-11 10:46:00 • By the Editorial Desk
